These days, laser printers are literally everywhere due to the increase in the number of individuals who are convinced that these machines are the most convenient printing options there is. The laser printer has a way of getting the job done right away making it a great choice for homes and offices. However, one problem that seems to be impossible to get rid of whether you are using an inkjet printer or a laser printer is paper jam. It seems as if this problem is the bane of everyone’s existence especially when it comes in such an untimely moment e.g. when you are running late for school or for an important meeting.

When you are facing an issue relating to a paper jam, you should know the basic reasons why you are experiencing such problem. Here are some clues that can help you avoid these problems in the future:

Paper Quality: The first thing that you have to do is to examine the quality of the paper. One of the main causes for paper jams in laser printer is paper issues. You have to make sure that the paper that you are going to feed to the printer is not moist or curled. You also have to keep in mind that there are laser printers that have problems in dealing with certain types of paper such as paper with a glossy or smooth finish and with linen paper. Another aspect to consider is that odd sized papers such as envelopes can cause problems for printers.

Cartridge type: When you are in the process of looking for the problem that might be causing frequent paper jams, it is important to pay attention to the type of cartridge that you are using. There are a lot of people who would hate the thought that they have to pay their printer more for overpriced toner cartridge but there is actually a reason behind this, generic toner cartridges can be a cause of paper jams. Of course, a generic cartridge is cheaper but it can actually be more costly in the long run and they can cause a lot of inconvenience. The primary reason behind this is the reality that there are some toner cartridges that do not meet the specifications of the manufacturer such as when they lack a small piece of plastic or a sensor which can make your laser printer a bit crazy. Aside from that, usage of a generic toner cartridge can void the warranty for your printer which means losing your access to free repairs.

Toner Spilling: Another common cause for paper jams is toner spilling. There are times when the reason for the paper jam can simply be solved by canned air. You will be amazed by the wonders of using canned air to solve the problem. All you have to do is spray canned air thoroughly to remove all residue of the laser toner. This way, you can restore the machine’s full functionality in no time. If you are still experiencing some issues even after doing this, it’s time to grab a flashlight and try to see if there is any residue stuck inside the machine. The sensors might think that there is still paper inside when there is toner residue in the interior. Once you get rid of the residue, your machine should be good to go.

Knowing some tricks in dealing with paper jams is definitely amazing especially when you are in a situation where urgency and quick thinking are vital. Next time you encounter problems with your laser printer, be sure to keep these things in mind. This will surely save you from wasting a lot of time in figuring out what went wrong with your machine.